Earning TDN Rising Star status at Saratoga back on August 30 when winning by more than 10 lengths at his second run, El Kabeir closed out 2014 with a tenacious win in the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes at Churchill Downs and was expected to keep up the good work here.

The John Terranova trained colt was partnered by C.C. Lopez in the absence of regular rider Calvin Borel and despite stumbling after leaving the gates was able to recover and find his rhythm.

Despite travelling three deep from his wide draw, the son of Scat Daddy was able to forge clear and win the 1m 70yd feature by four and three-quarter lengths.

“I never panicked; I was riding the best horse in the race. I just bided my time, and when I was ready, I pushed the accelerator and he went. I think he’ll go further as he develops. He won pretty easily and switched off after he got past, so he was kind of cool. I hope I get to ride him [again].”

A $250,000 OBS August Yearling purchase, El Kabeir runs for the Zayat Stable and has the overall record of three wins and two placings from six starts with prizemoney of $388,892.

El Kabeir is the first winner for unraced Great Venue, a half-sister to Grade II winner Too Much Bling.

He is likely to look to races such as the Grade III Withers Stakes on February 7 or the Grade III Gotham Stakes on March 7.